The trouble is - is that this is not your choice to be depressed -- is it?

Sometimes depression is a dysfunctional coping mechanism and other times a chemical imbalance.

But whatever it is, it only compounds the problem when you see or you suspect that you are infecting others with your disinterest for your life. Nobody wants that.

So can you suck other people down with you? Yes, you can.

While I am no means saying disconnect with the loved ones in your life in order not to depress them too -- I am saying that it is important that you work on battling this disorder with every breath in your body and a little professional guidance.

Depression does not just hurt you -- it affects all the people in your life.

1. Co-workers.
2. Family.
3. Friends.
4. Lovers.

Everyone. So go get the help you need and in the meantime, try not to infect anyone:)

My name is Rayna Battle and I suffer from Major Depression, Cyclothymia, and Generalized Anxiety. I am not a mental health professional. Instead, I am a fellow sufferer, researching and fighting to understand the illnesses that threaten our happiness.

Each week I send out a brief newsletter with encouragement, tips, and other useful mental health resources. You can sign up for this free newsletter using the box right below this article.

Thank you for reading! I encourage you to share your opinion of it in the Depression forum, a community of people who understand.